Where to say 'I do' - Quirky wedding venues in County Down

Wedding season is nearly upon us and while imminent brides-to-be are putting the finishing touches to their big day, freshly engaged fiancées are just getting started with their wedding planning.

County Down is home to a selection of very special venues to host your wedding ceremony, whether you and your other half are looking to the more traditional side or want to take a modern approach to your wedding. Take a look at our list of the top wedding venues in County Down to tie the knot before spending your evening do with us at Dufferin Coaching Inn and Hall.

Old Court Chapel

This quaint old-world chapel is located on a high wooded bank which overlooks the breath-taking scenic Strangford Lough. Just like Dufferin Hall, it is an ideal venue for small weddings as the Chapel accommodates approximately 110 guests. After the vows, the bridal party can capture a full album of picture-perfect wedding photographs in front of the Narrow Waters before making their way to Dufferin Hall.

Hillsborough Castle

Experience your very own fairy tale wedding at Hillsborough Castle. Fit for a large number of guests, the grounds of the castle are royally enchanting and are perfect for classic ceremonies. Located just a short drive across rural County Down from Dufferin Hall, the grand backdrop of the castle is a perfect start to you happily ever after.  

Castle Ward

Add timeless charm to your special day with the multiple backdrops available on the stunning grounds of Castle Ward. From the old-world Mansion House, to the botanical surroundings of The Sunken Garden, Castle Ward has plenty to offer for all your ceremony and wedding photography needs with a fantastic team to look after you your big day.

Rowallane Gardens

Get married in your very own secret garden at Rowallane Gardens in Saintfield. Set amongst the National Trust’s beautiful blooms this site provides romantic charm to weddings. Couples can say their vows in the walled garden or under the captivating bandstand before ringing the bell in the bell tower to announce their “I do’s”. 

Castle Espie

WWT Castle Espie’s Limekiln Observatory is a wedding venue match made in heaven for wedding planners trying to blend modern architecture with the beauty of the great outdoors. The Limekiln Observatory has three glass walls which fill the room with light and opens up a spectacular view of Castle Espie’s natural surroundings, making it an ideal location for couples who love nature but want the security of having shelter from Northern Irish weather.

Photo courtesy of Ferguson Wedding Flowers

Photo courtesy of Ferguson Wedding Flowers

Temple of the Winds

Perched on the edge of the Mount Stewart estate, the Temple of the Winds overlooks the entire grounds and boasts a view which gazes across Strangford Lough. One of the area’s best kept secrets, the Temple is an intimate wedding venue with a quirky vibe that Dufferin brides will love. For an added touch, hire a double-decker bus to take your guests from the Temple of the Winds to Dufferin Hall for your wedding reception, offering them views of the gorgeous local countryside on the way to the party.

The enthusiastic team at Dufferin Coaching Inn & Hall have catered to a range of needs for brides and grooms looking for a unique and quirky wedding.  Get in touch for more information on Dufferin’s enchanting reception space and bridal offerings.